CrowdStrike and Fortinet: A Strategic Partnership to Elevate Cybersecurity

In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, organizations are compelled to adopt robust security measures that can effectively protect their digital assets. Recognizing this urgent need, CrowdStrike, a leader in AI-native endpoint security, has announced a strategic partnership with Fortinet, renowned for its next-generation firewall (NGFW) solutions. This collaboration aims to unify best-in-class endpoint and firewall protection, providing customers with a comprehensive security framework that addresses the complexities of modern cyber threats.

The Need for a Multi-Layered Security Approach

The rapid evolution of cyber threats necessitates a multi-layered approach to security. Traditional security tools often fall short, leaving organizations vulnerable due to limited visibility and delayed detection and response capabilities. The CrowdStrike and Fortinet partnership seeks to bridge these gaps by integrating advanced technologies that enhance security across networks, applications, and endpoints. By leveraging rich telemetry from both endpoint and network environments, this partnership enables organizations to achieve fast, accurate, and AI-powered threat protection and response.

Unifying Endpoint and Network Security

At the heart of this partnership is the integration of CrowdStrike’s Falcon® cybersecurity platform and Fortinet’s FortiGate NGFWs. The Falcon platform has revolutionized cybersecurity with its AI-native and adversary intelligence approach, replacing outdated antivirus solutions and legacy point products. It has become the industry standard for endpoint security, offering unparalleled protection efficacy, enterprise scalability, and ease of deployment.

On the other hand, Fortinet’s FortiGate NGFWs are designed to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency. Available in various form factors, including hardware, software, and as-a-Service, Fortinet’s solutions utilize proprietary ASICs that provide, on average, 17 times faster firewall performance while being up to 90 percent more power-efficient than competitors. The integration of FortiGuard AI-powered Security Services further enhances threat protection, ensuring organizations are equipped to tackle the most advanced cyber threats.

Streamlining Security Operations

The seamless, bidirectional integration of CrowdStrike and Fortinet optimizes both network and endpoint security. This collaboration streamlines security operations, allowing organizations to detect and respond to elusive threats more rapidly. Customers and partners benefit from context-rich insights into network traffic, user activity, and device posture, which significantly strengthens their ability to mitigate security risks. With real-time protection and responses against sophisticated threats, organizations can operate with greater confidence in their security posture.

A Commitment to an Open Cybersecurity Ecosystem

Both CrowdStrike and Fortinet are dedicated to fostering a broad, adaptable, and open cybersecurity ecosystem. This commitment empowers customers and partners to build tailored, best-of-breed security strategies that meet their unique needs. By collaborating, these two industry leaders are not only enhancing their own offerings but also providing a platform for partners to deliver added value and drive growth.

Industry Perspectives on the Partnership

Industry analysts and executives have expressed enthusiasm about the CrowdStrike and Fortinet partnership. Jay McBain, Chief Analyst at Canalys, highlights the powerful combination of two leading cybersecurity companies, emphasizing the benefits for customers and partners alike. He notes that this partnership creates a multi-layered security solution that enhances the overall value proposition for all stakeholders involved.

Daniel Bernard, Chief Business Officer at CrowdStrike, underscores the importance of decisive strategy and execution in driving innovation. He believes that the collaboration with Fortinet will yield better security outcomes for customers and expand both companies’ market reach.

John Maddison, CMO and EVP of Products at Fortinet, reflects on the company’s long-standing commitment to the convergence of networking and security. He anticipates that the partnership with CrowdStrike will lead to continued innovation and a joint solution that resonates across various market segments, from Fortune 500 companies to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Justin Tibbs, Vice President of Cybersecurity at Presidio, emphasizes the significance of integrating best-of-breed technologies. He views the partnership as a way to supercharge the security services provider toolkit, offering customers the most advanced cybersecurity solutions available.

Conclusion

The strategic partnership between CrowdStrike and Fortinet marks a significant advancement in the cybersecurity landscape. By unifying endpoint and firewall protection, the two companies are poised to deliver unparalleled security solutions that address the complexities of modern threats. As organizations continue to navigate an increasingly challenging cyber environment, this collaboration offers a promising path toward enhanced protection, streamlined operations, and a more resilient security posture. With a commitment to innovation and an open cybersecurity ecosystem, CrowdStrike and Fortinet are set to redefine the standards of cybersecurity excellence.